Computer Server Heat Regulation Utilizing Integrated Precision Air Flow

ABSTRACT

The present invention includes a server system that uses an airflow source that can be external to the computer that the airflow source cools. The computer may be sealed such that the conduits are the primary source of fluid ingress and egress. The airflow source can be positioned in a case of the computer, support members affixing the computer to a rack stand, the rack stand, or beyond conduit that conducts fluid to the rack stand.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 from U.S.non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/577,886 titled ServerRack with Integrated Precision Air Flow filed on Sep. 20, 2019, whichclaims priority from U.S. non-provisional patent application 15/792,663titled Server Rack with Integrated Precision Air Flow filed on Oct. 24,2017, which in turn claims priority under U.S. 35 U.S.C. § 120 from U.S.non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/144,788 titled ServerRack with Integrated Precision Air Flow filed on May 2, 2016, which inturn claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 from U.S. provisional patentapplication 62/158,529 titled Server Rack with Integrated Precision AirFlow filed on May 7, 2015.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a computer server rack and moreparticularly, a computer server rack system that can be used toefficiently direct air flow to electric equipment such as servers andother network devices for dissipation of heat.

BACKGROUND

Existing rack-mount server systems include a server rack and a pluralityof server units received in the server rack. Typically each of theserver units is mounted to the server rack with a pair of mountingbrackets or rails respectively fixed to the inside surface of oppositesidewalls of a server rack. There have been numerous efforts to directair and other fluids to electronic equipment to aid in heat dissipation.

SUMMARY

The server rack according to the invention includes a frame thatincludes hollow tubular support posts on the front sides and rear sidesof the device. Between the front and rear posts are forward side panelsand rearward side panels. The panels receive a complement of cartridgesthat have valve members to control the flow of air from a rear cavitythough passages in the cartridges, through the rail and into servers. Aplurality of side rails for receiving servers are attached to the frontand rear posts. The rails have passages through the sidewalls thatcorrespond with passages provided on the sidewalls of the servers,

In a preferred embodiment, air conditioned air is introduced to forwardside panels through passages provided on the upper and lower surfaces.Next, air travels from the forward panel, though one or more passagesthat is provided through a cartridge member, and then, into a frontsection of a server through a passage that is provided on the lateralsidewall of the server. Air travels through the server from the frontsection of the server to a rear section and then exits through a passagein the lateral sidewall to a cartridge that is provided in a rear panel.Next the air is returned to the air conditioner unit for recirculation.

In an embodiment the sever rack is approximately 6 feet tall anddesigned to accommodate forty-two server units in 4.445 cm (1.75 inch)increments. Rail members are provided at each unit segment on the sidepanels and support a server. In embodiments further discussed below,passages through the cartridges have at least one valve member that canbe individually electromechanically or manually controlled. When noserver is provided in a specific rack unit, or when the temperature isotherwise adequately controlled in a particular server unit, theaperture may be closed. In embodiments, a controller automatically opensor closes valve members provide in cartridges in response to a signalfrom a thermometer.

As such, it should be appreciated that the valves or passages can beopened and closed variably for each server depending on the coolingneeds for the server. Further, as discussed herein, the degree of airflow through the aperture can be controlled using a damper or weirarrangement. Therefore, in embodiments, a local controller is providedand can receive input information from thermometers reading thetemperatures of the servers and can adjust the opening and closingvalves aperture accordingly. Alternatively the dampers may be manuallyadjusted. In yet further embodiments a central controller receivessignals from a plurality of server racks.

Each of the openings on the post is provided with a releasable seal toblock flow depending on the particular configuration of servers. Inembodiments, flexible manifolds extend from the posts to direct thefluid to and from access areas provided on the servers. While thepreferred embodiment contemplates the use of air flow, in embodimentsthe frame is configured to receive a liquid and the posts and manifolddirect fluid to heat exchange elements that engaged the respectiveservers.

In yet further embodiments the rack is configured to allow both liquidflow and air flow.

These aspects of the invention are not meant to be exclusive.Furthermore, some features may apply to certain versions of theinvention, but not others. Other features, aspects, and advantages ofthe present invention will be readily apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art when read in conjunction with the followingdescription, and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art server rack and side panel.

FIG. 2a is a perspective view of a partial rack assembly according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2b is a perspective view of two side panels of a partial rackassembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective exploded view of a first rail assembly, a serverand a second rail assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a top exploded view of a first rail assembly, a server and asecond rail assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4B is a top view of a first rail assembly, a server and a secondrail assembly attached together according to an embodiment of theinvention. FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view of a side panel andserver in alignment before assembly according to an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a side panel and server attached to oneanother. FIG. 7 is a perspective exploded view of side panel rails, aserver and a second panel according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of side panel rails, a server and a secondpanel according to embodiment of FIG. 7 that has been assembled.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a rack assembly including side panels,rails, and a server that schematically illustrates a server sliding intothe assembly.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a side panel, rails, a server and asecond panel that further includes cartridges received in the forwardand rearward side panels that illustrate a server sliding into theassembly.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10 witha server secured within the device.

FIG. 12 is a perspective illustration of an embodiment of the inventionthat includes a schematic representation of the direction of air flowfrom the forward panels to a server.

FIG. 13 is a perspective illustration of an embodiment of the inventionthat includes a schematic representation of the direction of air flowfrom a server through rearward side panels.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a rail assembly that is used connectionwith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the rail assembly that is shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view in elevation of the rail assembly with thefront section extended from the rear section that is shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is a top view of the rail assembly with the front sectionextended from the rear section.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a forward side panel and forward postaccording to an embodiment of the invention depicting the top surface ofthe panel.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a forward side panel and forward postshown in FIG. 18 depicting the bottom surface of the panel.

FIG. 20 is a top view of the forward side panel and forward post shownin FIG. 18.

FIG. 21 is a top sectional view of the forward side panel and forwardpost shown in FIG. 18 also depicting a cartridge and the manner in whichit is received in the panel.

FIG. 22 is a top sectional view of the forward side panel and forwardpost shown in FIG. 18 with a cartridge retained in the panel.

FIG. 23 is a front view in elevation of a post member used in connectionwith the invention.

FIG. 24 is a fragmented view in elevation of a forward side panel, aseries of cartridges, a cover plate and a forward post according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a front view in elevation of a forward panel having acomplete complement of cartridges.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a rearward side panel depicting the topsurface. FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a rearward side paneldepicting the lower surface.

FIG. 28 is a top view of an iris air flow control valve used in acartridge according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 is a side view of an iris valve used in a cartridge according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30a is a perspective view of an iris valve used in a cartridgeaccording to an embodiment of the invention in a closed position.

FIG. 30b is a perspective view of an iris valve used in a cartridgeaccording to an embodiment of the invention in a partial openedposition.

FIG. 30c is a perspective view of an iris valve used in a cartridgeaccording to an embodiment of the invention in a fully opened position.

FIG. 31 is a side fractional view in elevation of a cartridge assemblywith the valves partially opened.

FIG. 32 is a side fractional view in elevation of a cartridge assemblywith the valves fully opened.

FIG. 33 is a side sectional fractional view in elevation of a cartridgeassembly. FIG. 34 is side sectional fractional view of a cartridgeaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34B is side sectional fractional view of a cartridge according to afurther embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 35 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 36 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to anembodiment of the invention depicting a central channel impeded by ablock member.

FIG. 37 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to afurther embodiment of the invention with a central channel that ispartially impeded by an adjustable shutter and that schematicallydepicts air flow through the device. FIG. 38 is perspective partial viewof a cartridge according to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 36 thatschematically depicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 39 is a perspective partial view of an alternative cartridgeaccording to a further embodiment of the invention with iris valves inpartially open position that schematically depicts air flow through thedevice.

FIG. 40 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to theembodiment depicted in FIG. 39 with iris valves in fully open positionand that schematically depicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 41 is a perspective fractional front view of side panel members andservers that schematically depicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 42 is a perspective fractional rear view of side panel members andservers that schematically depicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 43 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to afurther embodiment of the invention with a series of circular passages.

FIG. 43A is a side sectional view of the cartridge embodiment depictedin FIG. 43 without the top seal member.

FIG. 43B is a sectional view of a forward panel, a cartridge rail andserver that illustrates the direction of airflow through the elements.

FIG. 43C is a sectional view of a forward panel, a cartridge, a rail andserver that illustrates the direction of airflow through the elementsaccording to a further embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 43D is a sectional view of a rearward panel, a cartridge, a railand server that illustrates the direction of airflow through theelements according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 44 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to theembodiment of 43 with the passages obstructed.

FIG. 45 is a perspective fractional view of a forward side paneldepicting a plurality of different cartridges.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a forward side panel depicting aplurality of different cartridges.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a forward side panel in an alternativeembodiment depicting a plurality of different cartridges.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a forward side panel depicting aplurality of different cartridges that are all devoid of passages.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the rack according tothe invention with a full complement of servers.

FIG. 50 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of the rack ofthe invention and depicting external paneling.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventiondepicting a controller and external paneling.

FIG. 52 is a perspective fractional top view of an embodiment of theinvention with an air conditioner and air pump system with a schematicrepresentation of an air flow system.

FIG. 53 is a perspective fractional bottom view of an embodiment of theinvention with a schematic representation of an air flow system with anair conditioner and air pump system.

FIG. 54 is a perspective fractional front view of an embodiment of theinvention wherein air is delivered from the side panel cartridge to thefront of a server using a flexible hose.

FIG. 55 is a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 54.

FIG. 56 is a perspective fractional front view of an embodiment of theinvention wherein air is delivered from the side panel cartridge to anopening in the top of a server using a flexible hose.

FIG. 57 is a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 54.

FIG. 58 is a perspective fractional front view of an embodiment of theinvention wherein air is delivered from the rear of a server to a rearcartridge using a flexible hose.

FIG. 59 is a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 58

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a further embodiment that uses twoservers in a single rack unit and an alternative air flow configuration.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a plurality of blade servers accordingto prior art.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of an alternative arrangement of bladeservers according to the prior art.

FIG. 63 is a front perspective fractional view of a chassis containing anumber of blade servers according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 64 is a front perspective fractional view of a chassis containing anumber of blade servers in multiple rows.

FIG. 65 is a front fractional view of a chassis containing a number ofblade servers according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 66 is a front perspective fractional view of a chassis containing anumber of blade servers in multiple rows according to an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 67 is a schematic illustration of a system used according inconnection with a data center.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The forgoing description, including the accompanying drawings, isillustrated by way of example and is not to be construed as limitationswith respect to the invention. Now referring to FIG. 1, a prior art racksystem is depicted that includes upright members and side members and isconfigured to receive a plurality of servers.

FIGS. 2A and FIG. 2B depicts aspects of an embodiment of the invention200 including forward side panel 204 and 202 and rearward side panels201 and 203. As best seen in FIG. 2B the side panels have respectivecavities 210 and 212 on their inner sides. The opposite side panels maybe attached together by a rear member or rear panel or other transversemembers that spans the opposite sidewalls of the device.

Now referring to FIG. 3, a further feature of embodiments of theinvention includes use of a rail member 307 which is configured to beattached to server 305. On the opposite side of the server is rail 309which includes passages 315 and 322 which correspond with adjacentpassages such as passages 310 and 320 that are located on the lateralsidewall 312 of the server 305. FIG. 4a is a top view of the inventionillustrates how rails 307 and 309 engage server 305 using fasteners 410,411 and 412 on one side and 414, 415 and 416 on the opposite side. FIG.4b depicts the rails attached to the server 305.

FIG. 5 shows a plurality of rails 307, 308 and 309 that are secured tolateral panels 505. These rails are configured to engage server 305.FIG. 6 depicts the side panel 505 wherein server 305 is engaged with thepanel at the top rail.

FIG. 7 depicts an exploded view of the assembly of rack assemblycomponents including side panel 505, rails 307 and 309 and opposite sidepanel 702.

FIG. 8 is an embodiment of the invention holding server 305 betweenpanels 505 and 702. Server 305 slides along rails 307 and 309 which areaffixed to the side panel sections 505 and 702.

FIG. 9 depicts how the server 305 slides in to the rack system from thefront along the opposite rails 307 and 309 attached to panels 505 and702 in an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 depicts assembly 1000 that includes a depiction of the airpassages 1010, 1011, 1015, and 1020 in the lateral side panels. In thisembodiment there are plurality of cartridges provided in the side panelssuch as cartridges 1028 and 1025 and 1030. A server is received in therack member by sliding it in the direction illustrated along theopposite rails.

FIG. 11 depicts the rack invention including server 305 in engagementwith the rails in position. The panel depicts a series of cartridgesattached and connected to the panel wherein the cartridges are designedto control the flow of air from the panel to the servers.

FIG. 12 illustrates the airflow though the rack of the invention.Airflow enters the left and right side panels through passages that areprovided on the top and bottom surface and passes from the front of thepanel, through cartridges, through side and into a server. As best seenin FIG. 13, air from the servers passes rearward and out passages in thesidewall back to a rear panel section. Air passes from the throughpassages provided on the top and bottom of the panels.

Now referring to FIG. 14, a two part rail member is depicted thatincludes passages 1450 and 1451 to allow for air flow and are located atthe front of rail member 1400 and passages 1460 and 1461 near theopposite end. The two parts of the rail slide along one another to allowthe rail to extend, such as that used in a conventional drawer. Inembodiments the rails may include bearing and roller elements. Each endof rail 1400 has attachment sections 1480 and 1481 that are orientedperpendicular to the length of the rail element and includes fasteningmeans to engage the upright members. The rail includes fastener elements1420, 1421, and 1422 that engage the server. FIG. 15, a top view of therail 1400, depicts the fastening members 1420, 1421 and 1422. As seen inFIG. 16, the passages 1450, 1451, 1460, & 1461 allow air flow though therail. FIG. 17 depicts a rail with the forward member fully extended.

FIG. 18 depicts panel 1800 that includes a front hollow upright member1825 and rear upright member 1850 that frame panel 1828. Panel 1800includes passages 1830 that allows airflow into the panel member. Alongthe inside surface of panel are a series of electrical contact pins 1840that are designed to receive the cartridge members. FIG. 19 depictspanel 1800 illustrating the bottom surface 1905 that includes a servicesof passages such as passages 1910, 1911, 1913, and 1914 that allow airflow into the panel. In embodiments, interior horizontal surface 1980 ofthe panel is provided with an elastomeric material on the surface whichcan engage opposite surfaces of the cartridge and establish an air tightseal. Vertical surface 1940 has a series of contact pins 1945 that canestablish an electrical connection with the cartridge members. Likesurface 1980, in embodiments, the surface 1940 panel is provided with anelastomeric material on the surface which can engage opposite surfacesof the cartridge and establish an air tight seal.

FIG. 20 is a top view of panel member 2100 showing openings 2140, 2142,and 2143 through top surface 2150. The openings provide an entrance forair flow to a section of the panel member.

FIGS. 21 and 22 are top sectional view of panel 2100 that shows howcartridge is received in the panel. In this regard, the cartridge isretained in place by pins 2165 and 2166 which engage upright members2168 and 2169 located in the lateral panel. The assembly creates a void2159 behind the cartridge. FIG. 22 depicts a top section view of theengagement of the cartridge with a side panel member 2100.

FIG. 24 includes a side view of a series of different cartridges 2410,2412, 2414, and 2416 that have passages through their respective lateralsides that are at different locations. The cartridges are designed tocomplement different servers that may be used in the rack system.Cartridge 2416 is depicted in engagement with side panel member 2400. Itis in electrical connection to a central bus 2455 by control wire 2450that is routed through a cavity in the side portion of panel 2400. Thecavity within the side panel is covered by plate 2420 or plate 2425.FIG. 23 is a front view of member 2482 and surface 2302 depicts holesprovided for attachment of the rails members. Flange section 2480 isprovided for attachment to the supporting frame for the rack system.

FIG. 25 depicts a side view of an exemplary panel containing a pluralityof cartridges, such as cartridges 2510, 2511, 2512, and 2513. Inaddition, FIG. 25 depicts an alternative configuration of cover platesto 2420 or 2425.

FIG. 26 depicts a rearward side panel 2600 designed to be used in therack system of the invention. Like the front panel, rearward panelincludes a series of vertical passages 2620, 2621, 2622, and 2623 thoughtop surface 2605 of panel 2600. The passages terminate in the recessregion 2608 defined by upright members 2630 and 2631 and horizontalmembers 2635 and 2636 and rear flat section 2618. The panel 2600 isattached to the supporting frame for the rack using flange member 2675.At the rear of the section, upright post member 2650 provides additionalstructural support for the panel. As shown in FIG. 27, panel 2600 alsoincludes passages through the lower member 2635 such as passage 2620. Aseries of connector pins 2615 is provided on upright member 2631 forengagement to the cartridges.

Now referring to FIGS. 28-30 an exemplary iris control valve is shown.The valve includes movable panel 2804 that can be opened and closed todefine different sized openings that are retained by an annular ring2802.

FIG. 31 depicts cartridge assembly 3100 that includes a control switch1301 which can be used to slide the pin members into or out of the panelto lock the cartridges into place. In embodiments, a control value ismanually manipulated to selectively open and close the values 1340,1341, 1342 and 1343. In further contemplated embodiments, valves may beopened and closed using a sliding planar sheet that covers the passage.In yet further embodiment the cartridge may use a motorized screw gearthat may be controlled by a rotating handle at the top of the panelattached to an extended threaded rod and the rotational movement of therod is translated to rectilinear motion. In yet a further embodiment thecartridge may use a servo-motor that may be connected to the iris valveselector arm by a connecting rod. In embodiments, on the ends of thecartridge are spring biased contact pins such as pin 1310 that isdesigned to engage the lateral interior side surfaces of forward orrearward panel members. As seen in FIG. 33, sensor 1391 is designed todetect the presence of an adjacent server. In an embodiment, the sensorincludes is an infrared light 1320 and photo detector 1356 wherein lightis reflected from a reflective surface provided on the server can bedetected. When the server is present opposite the detector infraredlight is reflected off of a surface on the server and impinges on thephoto detector. The photo detector then sends a signal via wire 1371 tocontroller 1348 which in turn can provide a signal to open the valves,such as valve 1340, on the cartridge opposite the sever and allow air toflow.

In yet further contemplated embodiments the sensor can communicate withthe server transmitted by the server, such as a signal containinginformation relating to the internal temperature of the servercomponents. This signal is transmitted to the controller and may befurther related to the processor associated with a server rack. Theserver rack processor received data from the various servers and thestatus of the valves that are associated with the cartridges. Asdiscussed below the processor may be configured to communicate with aremote computer that may include a display that allows for remotemonitoring and control by an administrator and alerts that provideinformation that relates to the status of the respective servers. Suchcommunication may employ an Ethernet connection, USB connection, othercabling, or using wireless technology.

As best seen in FIG. 33, pin 1310 is also connected to the controller1348 which can bring power and control signals from an external source.Contact member 1340 is on the opposite end of the cartridge 3300 frompin 1310. Contact member 1340 engages its adjacent side panel in orderto complete a power circuit. The contact surfaces along the side surfaceand top interior surfaces are made of an elastomeric material and, whenthe cartridges are in an engaged position with the panel, an air tightseal is established wherein a cavity formed in the panel behind thecartridges can be pressurized.

Controller 1348 is attached to valves 1340, 1341, 1342, and 1343. In anembodiment, sensor 1319 includes an infrared light source and photodetector and will send a signal to the controlled reflecting thepresence of absence of a server opposite the sensor. If a server ispresent, the valves will be opened. If no server is detected oppositethe sensor, the valves remain closed.

Now referring to FIG. 34, cartridge 3300 is shown opposite side members2168 and 2169.

FIG. 34B depicts a further embodiment wherein the cartridge includes areservoir 3412 (not shown to scale) which contains an inert gas underpressure that can be used for fire suppression. Reservoir 3412 isconnected to a valve 3414 by tubular passage 3413. Valve 3414 controlsthe regulation of the inert gas into one of the passageways throughcartridge 3400. Valve 3414 is controlled by controller 3401 and, inembodiments, a temperature control sensor in communication with thecentral controller can send a signal indicative of temperature. Thecentral controller is programmed to send a signal to local controller3401 over wire 3415 when the temperature within a server has rapidlyincreased thereby reflecting a possible fire event.

FIG. 35 depicts air flow through an exemplary cartridge 3500 thatincludes valves 3505, 3511, 3512, and 3513 in a partially-openedposition. As shown in FIG. 36 an alternative embodiment of the cartridge3600 depicts cavity 3608 that may receive removable insert 3610 thatfunctions to block airflow through the cartridge. In a furtherembodiment, depicted in FIGS. 37 and cartridge 3700, a movable flap 3709is provided to regulate air flow. As depicted the shutter 3709 orshutter is mounted for pivotal movement and only allows flow through gap3707. In embodiments shutter is 3709 is incrementally opened using astepper motor that can incrementally adjust the position of the shutterand correspondingly incrementally adjust the size of the opening. Inother embodiments the shutter can be manually adjusted. It iscontemplated that this cartridge design may be used with a server thathas corresponding rectangular passages on the lateral sidewall (notshown). Referring to FIG. 38, the shutter is depicted in a fully openedposition and the gap or opening is defined by space 3809. In thisposition the air flow through the cartridge is maximized.

FIG. 39 illustrates a fractional view of a cartridge 3900 having aseries of valves 3910, 3911, 3912, and 3913 in a partially open positionand depicts the direction of airflow through the valves. FIG. 40 depictsvalves 3910, 3911, 3912, and 3913 in a fully open position wherein theair flow is increased.

FIG. 41 is a sectional view of a front section of a rack system andserver depicting air flow first into the received cavity section 4105 ofpanel 4100 from both the lower and upper directions. Air flows intopassage 4120, through a rail section (not shown) and into server 4150.Another flow path that is illustrated travels from the panel cavity 4105through passage 4125 that is provided through cartridge 4109. Airintroduced in the front of servers 4150 and 4151 cools components withinthe servers and flows rearward. As shown in FIG. 42, air flows from thefront of server 4150 passes through passage 4195 that is provided thoughcartridge 4185 and into panel cavity section 4205. From the rear cavity4205 the air flows either upwardly or downwardly to the passages in thetop and bottom of the rearward side panel section.

FIG. 43 depicts an embodiment of a cartridge member 4300 having aplurality of passages 4310, 4311, 4312, and 4313 depicted in an openposition. In this embodiment there is a sealing member 4370 received ina groove 4325 provided along the top surface of the cartridge member4300. Sealing member 4370 designed to engage the bottom surface of anadjacent cartridge or a top horizontal member of a panel and form an airtight seal. Sealing member 4370 can be raised and lowered via amechanical connection with member 4380. When member 4380 is in theretracted position, pins 4381 and 4382 will be retracted along with seal4370 being lowered. When member 4380 is in the engaged position, pins4381 and 4382 will be moved forward and seal 4370 will be in the raisedposition. The bottom of the cartridge is also provided with a lowergroove 4330 that can be received the top of a cartridge positioned undercartridge 4300. In this embodiment a flat blocking member 4330 isprovided within the cartridge 4300 which can be controlled by engagementof member 4345 to laterally slide the member to block the passages andthereby impede the flow of air through the cartridge. In this embodimentpin 4381 and pin 4382 are spring biased and can be retracted by slidingcontrol lever 4380 in a lateral direction. Upon release of the lever,the pins may be received in opposite openings provided on the side panelmembers to retain the cartridge members in place. In FIG. 43A, blockingmember 4330 is depicted retained within opposite grooves 4351 and 4352provided in the interior top surface 4370 and bottom interior surface4372 of the cartridge 4300 and engaged to allow for movement within thegrooves.

FIG. 43B depicts a sectional view of an assembly that includes theplanar sheet member 4105 that defines a void region through which airflows into the rear of a cartridge 4110. The cartridge includes a topsealing member 4370 that is comprised of a resilient material which isprovided to assist with forming a seal with an adjacent cartridge. Theair flow is interfered by member 4351 which will slide to open and closea passage 4310 that allows air flow to server 4150. The rail member isdepicted as two part member 307 and 308 through which is provided with apassage to allow for air flow from cartridge 4110 to server 4150.

FIG. 43C depicts a further embodiment that include annular seal ringmember 4398. In this embodiment an annular fabric shroud will axiallyextend from the annular ring 4399 provided at the junction of airpassages and, in response to air flow, shroud 4399 is radially displacedto seal the junction between the components. As such when air flows, theshroud fills the gap between the cartridge, rail, and server.

FIG. 43D schematically depicts air flow from server 4150 to a rearpanel. Like the embodiment depicted in FIG. 43C, the embodiment includesannular seal member 3488 and shroud member 4389 that, in response to airflow is displaced to minimize the air loss through the interface betweenserver 4150, rail members 307 and 308 and cartridge 4162.

FIG. 44 depicts cartridge 4300 wherein the blocking member 4330 has beenmoved to close the passages 4310, 4311, 4312, and 4313 and the pins 4381and 4382 are depicted in a retracted position. In embodiments, the sealis mechanically lifted by rotation of a cam member that alternativelylowers and raises a seal member such as seal member 4370. In yetalternative embodiments, the resilient member is spring biased and canbe displaced downwardly upon assembly. In yet further embodiments, amechanical switch is provided that lifts and mechanically locks theresilient member by lateral movement of a switch extension that isaccessible through an L shaped opening. FIG. 45 illustrates a side panelassembly 4500 including a plurality of cartridges such as cartridges4550 and 4551 that span upright member 4521 and upright member 4520. Therear surface of the cartridges define a front surface of an internalcavity of the panel. Adjacent to upright member 4521 is an upright frontpost member 4575 that is provided to support the servers and rails ofthe device.

FIG. 46 depicts a completely assembled forward panel including uprightfront post member 4575, section and cartridges such as 4558, 4559, 4560.FIG. 47 depicts an alternative assembly that includes a number ofcartridges that are devoid of valves and passages. FIG. 48 depicts afurther alternative assembly where the cartridges that were selectedinclude no valves or passages. Thus FIGS. 47 and 48 illustratealternative configurations of cartridges that may be used with theinvention. As best seen in FIG. 47, the cartridges may have differentvertical dimensions to conform the vertical dimension of a server. Inaddition, in embodiments cartridges may have different lateral placementof the iris valves and passages to conform to the needs of differingservers and network equipment.

FIG. 49 depicts a server assembly with a full complement of single rackunit servers.

As shown in FIG. 50, the server rack assembly and servers are optionallyenclosed in a cabinet 5000 that includes side exterior panels 5005 and5006, top exterior panel 5025 and bottom exterior panel 5008. All of thequarter panels are attached to an intermediate frame to be fullysupported. The entire rack is elevated from a support surface by legs5020 or 5021 or, alternatively, on casters. The top panel is providedwith passages that allow air to flow to the forward panel 5012 andrearward panel 5010 that is contained within exterior panels. Additionalpassages, not pictured, may be added to 5008 and 5025 for power, networkcables, and other cabling.

Referring now to FIG. 51, an assembled rack system 5100 includesexterior side panels 5008 and 5009 that contain the side forward panelsand rearward side panels.

In embodiments, there are front and rear doors provided that can be usedto close and lock the whole rack. In further embodiments, the panelsused are insulated. Again referring to FIG. 51, the top of the deviceincludes front top passages 5121 and 5130 that communicate with theforward lateral side panels. Next to the inlet passages 5121 and 5130are pressure relief valves 5128 and 5131. When the pressure in thesystem exceeds a predetermined pressure, the values will release air tothe atmosphere and prevent damage to components of the system. Similarpressure relief values 5138 and 5142 are located in the rear panel. Onthe top of the panel is a controller 5150 that is in communication withthe cartridges via wires 5140.

A top view of a rack device 5200 is depicted in FIG. 52 that includes anair conditioner 5204 that provides cool air to top inlet passages inforward panels thought conduits 5220 and 5223. Air, after it has passedthrough a server, flows to the rearward panels and may exit through toppassages 5282 and 5285. Air exiting the panels is then directed throughconduits 5228 and 5229 to pump 5229 that maintains negative pressure inthe exhaust system and moves the air from the forward panels, throughthe servers and out to the rearward panels. Air from the pump may betransferred back to the air conditioner through passages (not shown) forrecirculation through the system.

As shown in FIG. 53 the bottom surface 5310 of a rack system 5300receives cool air from air conditioner 5340 from conduits 5325. Air isvented from the system through conduits 5329 and 5330. A pump 5345 isprovided that creates and maintains negative pressure in the exhaust airflow system and may transfer air back through passages (not shown) tothe air conditioner.

In embodiments, the system includes a controller and servo motor thatcan adjust the flow parameters depending on the temperature of theserver or group of servers. In further embodiments, the system includesa control board that includes a small circuit board with an Ethernetcommunications port for communication with the servers, a valvecontroller, air conditioner, heat pump, and a remote central monitoringand control location.

Referring now to FIG. 54, in a further embodiment 5400 air is directedfrom a cartridge member 5410 to openings provided in the front panel5412 of server 5415 using flexible tubular members 5420, 5421, and 5422.The depiction includes panels 5428 and 5429 that receive the cartridgesthat are described herein, FIG. 55 depicts a top view of the systemdescribed above and includes the flexible tubes 5420, 5421, and 5422that are depicted extending past the front edge of the server 5417.

In another embodiment of the invention that is depicted in FIG. 56, airis distributed from cartridge member 5602 through flexible tubularmembers 5620, 5621, and 5622 to openings on the top of a server 5615. Inthis embodiment, server 5615 only extends one half the distance of theserver rack. FIG. 57, a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 56,shows conduits that extend from the lateral panel 5627 to the top ofserver 5615. Now referring to FIG. 58, a further aspect of the inventionis depicted wherein air is removed or vented from the rear of server5905 using flexible hoses or tubular members to cartridge 5930 in rearpanel 5908. As seen in FIG. 59, the air is directed from server 5905 tothe rear panel section 5908 using tubular members 5917, 5916 and 5915.

FIG. 60 depicts a schematic representation of an alternative air flowarrangement in a further embodiment of the invention. In this embodimentservers 6011 and 6012 are attached to the same vertical location that isin turn attached to the front side panel 6005 and rear side panel 6006.Also shown are servers 6010 and 6009 that are also attached to the frontside panel opposite 6005 and rear side panel opposite 6006 usingconventional a rack mount hardware. Air from cartridges provided in thefront panel 6005 and rear panel 6006 flows laterally into the servers6009, 6010, 6011, and 6012 and exits the servers through openings suchas openings 6025, 6076, 6027 and 6078. The openings are on the oppositesides of the servers and passages on cartridges (not shown) provided onlateral panels (not shown) that are opposite panels 6005 and 6006 andwhich receive from the servers and distribute the air out of the panels.

FIG. 61 is a depiction of prior art blade server system 6100 wherein aplurality of server blades 6121, 6122, 6123, 6124, 6125, 6126, 6127 and6128 are oriented in a vertical direction and contained in an externalhousing 6110. External hosing 6110 is designed to be received in serverrack. FIG. 62 depicts a further alternative wherein an external housing6120 encloses a plurality of servers such as 6221 and 6222. Blade serversystem 6200 includes two rows of vertically oriented servers. FIG. 63depicts an embodiment of the invention adapted to provide cool air toand remove air from vertically oriented blade servers. Here, conduit6320 is connected to a cartridge according to one of the embodiments ofthe invention discussed above and direct air to an opening provided onthe top surface of server 6301. Air is removed from server 6301 usinghollow tubular conduit 6328 which is directed air to a cartridgeprovided in rearward lateral panel as described above. FIG. 63 thereforedepicts a server device in which each of the serves 6301, 36302, 6303,6304 6307, 6308, 6309 and 6310 are provided with air flow to and fromthe server. These conduits pass through the external casing 6340 thatretains the servers and then direct the air laterally.

FIG. 64 depicts a further embodiment 6400 wherein hollow tubular coolingconduits such as 6420 and 6421 provide airflow into servers 6401 and6402. Air is removed from the servers in a similar manner as describedwith respect to the embodiment 6300 depicted herein.

FIG. 65 depicts a blade server arrangement 6500 wherein air isdistributed to servers through openings on their bottom surfaces throughtubular conduits 6530, 6531, 6532, 6533, 6534, 6535, 6536 and 6537. Airis removed from the servers using tubular conduits 6538, 6539, 6540,6541, 6542, 6543 and 6544 and is directed laterally wherein it can bereceived by cartridge members as described herein provided on lateralpanels. In a further embodiment 6600 depicted in FIG. 66, a row of bladeservers includes multiple rows of servers oriented vertically. Air isprovided to servers on a lower row using through tubular conduits suchas 6630 and 6631. These conduits provide air flow from lateral sides ofthe device 6600 and deliver the air to the bottom surface of severs. Airis removed from the servers using similar conduits and directedlaterally.

In further embodiments (not shown), fans are provided in the cartridgesto assist with air flow to the servers and to assist with the removal ofair from the servers. In yet other embodiments the fans may be providedin connection with the intake openings and exhaust opening in thepanels, or along the conduits that provide for air handling to and fromthe panels.

FIG. 67 is a schematic view of an embodiment wherein a plurality ofracks 6705 are positioned in a building structure 6701 to constitute aserver facility or data center. The data center includes a centralcontroller 6730 that may be in proximity to the data center or in remotecommunication. The system optionally includes an air conditioner systemthat includes conventional exterior components 6710 such as acompressor, condenser element and a fan and interior components 6711that include fans, evaporator coils, and an expansion device for thecoolant used in the system. The system may also include heat pumptechnology including interior components 6721 (not shown) which mayinclude a blower, an expansion device, and an exterior coil andconventional exterior components 6720 including a compressor, checkvalves, an expansion device, exterior coils and a fan.

In yet further embodiments, a variety of rails members are provided inconnection with the rack systems to receive different server models,wherein the rails have different designs with different passages tocomplement the passages in different servers.

It is to be understood, however, that even though numerouscharacteristics and advantages of the embodiment have been set forth inthe foregoing description, together with details of the structure andfunction of the embodiment, the disclosure is illustrative only, andchanges may be made in detail, especially in the matters of shape, size,and arrangement of parts within the principles of the present disclosureto the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the termsin which the appended claims are expressed.

Although the present invention has been described in considerable detailwith reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versionswould be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not belimited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention permits the efficient cooling of computerequipment, particularly aggregated computer equipment confined toenclosed spaces. The power use of server farms, co-location facilities,and other data centers that specialize in providing computation andstorage availability are using a sizeable percentage of availableelectricity. Much of this power use is related, not only to operatingthe computer equipment, but also cooling the computer equipment. Thepresent invention represents a substantial advance in the effectivenessof cooling this equipment in way that does not require the substantialmodifications to facilities, and allows a modular and upgradablesolution.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer cooling system, comprising: a serverrack stand defining an interior void, an airflow inlet passage, anairflow outlet passage, and an airflow exhaust passage; asubstantially-sealed computer adapted to releasably affix within saidserver rack stand, said substantially-sealed computer having a casedefining an airflow inlet opening and an airflow outlet opening eachdimensioned to be positioned at least partially in alignment with saidairflow inlet passage and said airflow exhaust passage, respectively; aserver conduit forming a sealed connection between said airflow inletopening and said airflow outlet passage, and between said airflowopening outlet and said airflow exhaust passage; and an airflow source,exterior to said case, configured to urge airflow from said airflowinlet passage to said airflow outlet opening.
 2. The computer coolingsystem of claim 1, wherein said airflow source is positioned within saidserver rack stand.
 3. The computer cooling system of claim 1, consistingof said airflow source within said server rack stand.
 4. The computercooling system of claim 1, further comprising at least one perforatedlateral support member adapted to horizontally releasably affix to saidsubstantially-sealed computer to support said substantially-sealedcomputer upon said server rack stand, said at least one perforatedlateral support member having a member body defining at least oneinternal lateral body channel that has a channel cross-section,throughout a girth of said member body and that is adapted to permitlateral airflow through said member body.
 5. The computer cooling systemof claim 4, wherein said airflow source is positioned in said at leastone perforated lateral support member.
 6. The computer cooling system ofclaim 5, wherein said airflow source is positioned in said at least oneinternal lateral body channel.
 7. The computer cooling system of claim5, consisting of said airflow source positioned in said at least oneinternal lateral body channel.
 8. A computer cooling system, comprising:a server rack stand defining an interior void, an airflow inlet passageand an airflow outlet passage; a substantially-sealed computer adaptedto releasably affix within said server rack stand, saidsubstantially-sealed computer having a case defining an airflow inletopening and an airflow outlet opening each dimensioned to be positionedat least partially with said airflow inlet passage and said airflowoutlet passage, respectively; a server conduit forming a sealedconnection between said airflow inlet opening and said airflow outletpassage, and between said airflow opening outlet and said airflow inletpassage; and an airflow source positioned to urge airflow from saidairflow inlet passage to said airflow outlet passage.
 9. The computercooling system of claim 8, wherein said airflow source is positionedwithin said server rack stand.
 10. The computer cooling system of claim8, consisting of said airflow source within said server rack stand. 11.The computer cooling system of claim 8, further comprising: at least oneperforated lateral support member adapted to horizontally releasablyaffix to said substantially-sealed computer to support saidsubstantially-sealed computer upon said server rack stand, said at leastone perforated lateral support member having a member body defining atleast one internal lateral body channel that has a channelcross-section, throughout a girth of said body and that is adapted topermit lateral airflow through said member body.
 12. The computercooling system of claim 11, wherein said airflow source is positioned insaid at least one perforated lateral support member.
 13. The computercooling system of claim 12, wherein said airflow source is positioned insaid at least one internal lateral body channel.
 14. The computercooling system of claim 8, consisting of said airflow source positionedin said at least one internal lateral body channel.
 15. The computercooling system of claim 8, wherein said airflow source includes (i) asecondary airflow source that is positioned within said case, and (ii) aprimary airflow source that is positioned external to said case.
 16. Thecomputer cooling system of claim 8, further comprising a buildingconduit configured to conduct airflow from said airflow source to saidserver rack stand prior to conducting fluid from said server rack standto said case via said server conduit.
 17. A computer cooling system,comprising: a server rack stand defining an interior void, an airflowinlet passage, an airflow outlet passage, and an airflow exhaustpassage; a substantially-sealed computer adapted to releasably affixwithin said server rack stand, said substantially-sealed computer havinga case defining an airflow inlet opening and an airflow outlet openingthat is positioned opposite of said airflow inlet opening, said airflowinlet opening and said airflow outlet opening each dimensioned to bepositioned at least partially in alignment with said airflow exhaustpassage and said airflow inlet passage, respectively, when saidsubstantially-sealed computer is releasably affixed within said serverrack stand; a server conduit forming a sealed connection between saidairflow inlet opening and said airflow outlet passage, and between saidairflow opening outlet and said airflow exhaust passage; at least oneperforated lateral support member adapted to horizontally releasablyaffix to said substantially-sealed computer to support saidsubstantially-sealed computer upon said server rack stand, said at leastone perforated lateral support member having a member body defining atleast one internal lateral body channel that has a channel cross-sectiondisposed throughout a girth of said member body and that is adapted topermit a lateral airflow through said member body; a building conduitconfigured to transmit airflow to said airflow inlet passage to exposeairflow to said case; and an airflow source having an airflow sourceconstituent exterior to said case, said airflow source configured tourge air from said airflow inlet passage to said airflow exhaustpassage.
 18. The computer cooling system of claim 17, wherein saidairflow source constituent is positioned upstream of said at least oneperforated lateral support member.
 19. The computer cooling system ofclaim 18, further comprising an obstructer downstream of said airflowsource constituent.
 20. The computer cooling system of claim 18, whereinsaid airflow source constituent is positioned upstream of said serverrack stand.
 21. The computer cooling system of claim 21, furthercomprising an obstructer downstream of said airflow source constituent.22. The computer cooling system of claim 18, wherein said airflow sourceconstituent is positioned downstream of said substantially-sealedcomputer.
 23. The computer cooling system of claim 23, furthercomprising an obstructer downstream of said airflow source constituent.24. The computer cooling system of claim 23, further comprising anobstructer upstream of said airflow source constituent.